split-brain

[split-breyn]

adjective

1. having, involving, or pertaining to a severed corpus callosum.

split brain

noun

1. a brain in which the tracts connecting the two halves of the cerebral cortex have been surgically split or are missing from birth

Word History and Origins

Origin of split brain¹

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

In the 1960s, Gazzaniga began conducting experiments in split-brain patients whose corpus callosum, which connects the two hemispheres, was absent.

Read more on Salon

Although it gives a good conceptual footing for Erickson’s split-brain mystery, the whole severance thing doesn’t bear much inspection.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Last, consider what we know from split-brain work.

Read more on Nature

Much of this knowledge is thanks to the work Gazzaniga did in the 1960s with Roger Sperry on split-brain patients who had their cerebral hemispheres surgically disconnected, leading to, among other discoveries, the revelation that the two sides are able to function independently, like two autonomous minds.

Read more on Washington Post

Though split-brain research is closer to consciousness research than is genomics, coming up with a theory of consciousness would be the greatest challenge Gazzaniga ever faced.

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